Nevada Day & Halloween

Today our great state turns 159. Well, technically, I suppose we’re still a few days away from our “real” birthday. The Silver State became the 36th state of the Union on October 31, 1864. For many decades, we celebrated Nevada Day and Halloween together! Battle Born statehood activities coupled with costumes and trick-or-treating. Plus, NO SCHOOL! What could be better! When I was a kid, it was awesome!

In 1999, however, the Nevada legislature decided to move Nevada Day celebrations. We now observe our state’s birthday on the last Friday in October. This change aimed to give people a long weekend, as well as to ensure that the holiday wasn't overshadowed by Halloween. It makes me a little sad that Nevada Day and Halloween were separated, but it has been over 20 years. I really should be over it by now instead of talking about it every year. 😂

I will have you know though, in 2025, the last Friday of October also happens to coincide with Halloween. 🎃